Villa Maria, (375ml), 2016, Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc

White, New World, Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand

A typical Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc; gooseberry, passionfruit and citrus. Great as an aperitif or with seafood and white meats.

Why we recommend this wineWe learned about Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc when we visited some years ago (see our trip report here). At halfwine.com we think that this is a benchmark Kiwi Sauvignon in terms of quality and price.

The wineThe Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc comprises blend of fruit grown in the Wairau and Awatere valleys spanning a range of different meso-climates which were harvested at varying levels of ripeness over a five week period, providing for an array of flavours and blending options. The winery comments that this is "a fruit-salad-bowl of flavours including ripe gooseberry, passion fruit, fresh citrus lime and exotic herbaceous aromas. The wine has an exciting palate with layers of juicy flavours, intensity and fullness, finishing with a refreshing crisp, clean and racy acidity."

The wine estateVilla Maria is so ubiquitous that one is inclined to think that it is a corporate giant following questionable practices whilst it is in fact a family run business, albeit a large business, that was established more than 50 years ago and follows organic principles. www.villamaria.co.nz

Food and wineOrdinarily one would serve this sauvignon with seafood (no creamy sauces) or white meat but we have it most often with red Thai prawn curry; its bold flavours really offset the chili and coconut milk.

Did you know?In just 50 years Villa Maria grew from a one-man band to a global brand selling in more than 50 countries.